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Army Cook Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

The Salvation Army Springfield Harbor House Shelter located in Springfield, Missouri, is looking for cooks.Under the direct supervision of the Head Cook, the cook is responsible for preparation and ...

The Salvation Army Family Haven Shelter located in St. Louis, Missouri, is looking fora cook. The cook will be responsible for preparation and serving meals and performing cleanup. This is a ...

The Salvation Army Family Haven Shelter located in St. Louis, Missouri, is looking fora cook. The cook will be responsible for preparation and serving meals and performing cleanup. This is a ...

The Salvation Army Family Haven Shelter located in St. Louis, Missouri, is looking fora Lead Cook. The Lead Cook will be responsiblefor the efficient and healthy operation of the kitchen and dining ...

Army Cook information

See Missouri salary details

$8

$15

$20

How much do army cook jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for army cook in Missouri is $15.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $16.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do Army cooks make?

Army cooks, also known as food service specialists, typically earn a base salary that ranges from approximately $25,000 to $35,000 per year for entry-level positions. With experience, rank advancements, and additional responsibilities, their pay can increase, and they may also receive benefits such as housing allowances and healthcare.

What are some common challenges faced by army cooks in field environments, and how can they prepare for them?

Army Cooks often encounter unique challenges when preparing meals in field environments, such as limited equipment, unpredictable weather, and the need to serve large groups quickly. To succeed, it's important to be adaptable, well-organized, and able to follow strict food safety standards under pressure. Familiarity with field kitchen equipment and efficient teamwork are crucial, as cooks often collaborate closely with supply and logistics personnel to ensure timely meal delivery. Regular training and practice in simulated field conditions help Army Cooks build the necessary skills and confidence to overcome these challenges.

Can you be an Army Cook?

Yes, you can become an Army Cook by meeting the military's enlistment requirements, which include age, education, and physical fitness standards. Training is provided at basic training and through specialized culinary courses, and cooks are responsible for preparing meals in various military settings. Prior cooking experience or culinary skills can be beneficial but are not always mandatory.

What is the difference between Army Cook vs Army Food Service Specialist?

AspectArmy CookArmy Food Service Specialist
CertificationsBasic food safety and sanitation trainingSame as Army Cook, plus additional food service management
Work EnvironmentKitchen, dining facilities, field kitchensKitchen, dining facilities, logistics settings
Job DutiesPreparing meals, cooking, food presentationPreparing meals, managing food service operations, inventory

The Army Cook and Army Food Service Specialist roles share many similarities, including certifications and work environments. However, the Food Service Specialist often has additional responsibilities related to managing food operations and logistics, making it a broader role within military food services.

What does an army cook do?

An Army Cook is responsible for preparing, cooking, and serving meals to soldiers and other military personnel. They work in a variety of settings, from dining facilities on base to field kitchens during training exercises or deployments. Their duties include menu planning, food safety, inventory management, and maintaining kitchen equipment. Army Cooks play a vital role in ensuring troops are well-nourished and ready for their missions. They also adhere to strict food safety and sanitation standards to keep everyone healthy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an army cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Army Cook, you need basic culinary skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by military food service training. Familiarity with large-scale kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and military food preparation protocols is important. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are critical soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the timely delivery of safe, nutritious meals that support the health and morale of military personnel in diverse and demanding environments.
What are popular job titles related to Army Cook jobs in Missouri? For Army Cook jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Army Cook jobs in Missouri look for? The top searched job categories for Army Cook jobs in Missouri are:
Infographic showing various Army Cook job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $31,273 per year, or $15 per hour.

$15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 360 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

569th of 769 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

The Salvation Army Springfield Harbor House Shelter located in Springfield, Missouri, is looking for cooks.Under the direct supervision of the Head Cook, the cook is responsible for preparation and serving meals andperforming cleanup.

This is a full-time position, 40 hours per week, with starting pay of $15.00 per hour.

636 N Boonville Ave, Springfield, MO 65806

Essential Functions
(Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential
duties.):

  1. Prepare and serve food.
  2. Comply with all safety and health regulations/codes regarding food preparation and service including
    maintenance of proper sanitation by wearing plastic gloves, hair nets, and aprons.
  3. Maintain cleanliness in kitchen and dining areas.
  4. Sanitize all cooking utensils.Lift and carry cooking materials and supplies.
  5. Operate necessary kitchen equipment for food preparation & clean-up.
  6. Attend any necessary state certification classes and participate in required meetings of lodge staff.

Full job description available upon interview.

This job description should not be interpreted as an all-inclusive list. It is intended to identify the essential duties and requirements of the position. Employee will follow other instructions, and perform other related duties, as may be required by his/her supervisor. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.
Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent and one year cooking experience. Combination of education and experience will be considered. Able to comply with recipes and safety handling instructions. Medically qualified to work in food service area. Must have a valid food handling certificate.

Physical and Working Conditions

Must be able to perform the above essential duties. Capable of frequently lifting 25 pounds and occasionally lifting up to 50 pounds. Will occasionally move 50 or more pounds using dolly/cart/truck. Most work will be indoors in a temperature control environment: however, in the kitchen it will get above 80 degrees at times and cold in the walk-in refrigerator/freezer if so equipped.

Who are we?

https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/

The Salvation Army Mission

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Fair Chance Hire

The Salvation Army is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.

Benefits

The Salvation Army offers a competitive benefit package including:

  • 14 days paid holidays
  • Sick time, personal days, and a floating holiday
  • Health, Dental, Vision, and Hearing insurance
  • Company-paid Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Life Insurance
  • Company-paid Pension Fund
  • Long Term Disability with buyup option
  • Voluntary Retirement Fund (403b)
  • Voluntary Aflac products
  • Voluntary Short-term Disability
  • Other elective benefits

What Salvation Army employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US